Analysis Techniques For Man-Machine Systems Design

NATO UNCLASSIFIED- 7 - - AC/243(Panel-8)TR/7Volume 2Relative contributionUsers rated the technique extremely effective. it is seen as an essential building block to human engineeringprogrammes within a system development projecLApplicationsThe technique has been widely used for many years, and has been employed for land-, sea-, and air-borne systems. Thereferences provide some examples of the technique. Woodson (1981) provides an example of a non-military missiondescription.Quality assurance considerationsAnalysts should take precautions to avoid representing a limited view of the system operations. Because it is thestarting point for subsequent analyses, it is important that the mission description reflects all operationalrequirements. The description of the use of sub-systems must reflect any functional requirements that have beendeveloped. In a recent project the mission analyses omitted the use of tactical data links, despite the fact that suchcommunications were an obvious operational necessity. As a result the subsequent human factors analyses did notinclude the operation of the data link, until a progress review identified the deficiency.Thus it is important that the mission description be checked for consistency, completeness, and compatibility withany statement of operational requirements, both wartime and peacetime. Check that the analysis includes:* system description (including its general capabilities)* mission requirements (the types of mission), performance requirements (e.g., ranges, speeds, times, andacacs(nies)* system constraints (logistics, transportability, manning limitations, cost)environment (weather, temperature, threats, and support - the latter is too often ignored)*mission segments (times and activities showing specific system capabilities).Relationship to system performance requirementsThe analysis is derived from system performance requirements. Dcscriptions of mission events define what the systemmust accomplish to complete a mission.References and Bibliography1. D6ring, B. (1976). Application of system human engineering. In: K.F. Kraiss, J. Moraal, (Eds.), Introduction tohuman engineering. Kolnr Verlag TOY Rheinland GmbH.2. Kincade, R.G., & Anderson, J. (1984). Human factors guide for nuclear power plant control room development.San Diego, CA: Essex Corporation for Electric Power Research Institute. EPRI NP-3659.3. Lindquist, O.H., Jones, A.L., & Wingert, J.W. (1971). An investigation of airborne displavs and controls forsearch and rescue (SAR): volume II. Minneapolis: Honeywell Inc. JANAIR Report No. 701220.4. Linton, P.M., Jahns, D.W., & Chatelier. Cdr. P.R. (1977). Operator workload assessment model: an evaluationof a VF/VA-V/STOL system. In: Methods to assess workload, (pp A12-9- A12-1 1). Neuilly sur Seine, France:AGARD CP-216.5. US Department of Defense (1987). Human engineering procedures guide. Washington D.C.: DoD-HDBK-763.6. Woodson, WE. (1981). Human factors design handbook, (pp. 910-933). New York: McGraw-Hill Book Co.NATO UNCLASSIFIED-7 -